The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) advises people to adhere to four main rules
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued an important message to motorists across Great Britain. The Government agency, responsible for more than 47 million vehicle records, is especially concerned about scammers and urged people to take caution.
On X, formerly Twitter, the DVLA said: “Scammers are targeting drivers with fake texts and emails pretending to be DVLA. Think before you click. Don’t share personal info. Always use http://GOV.UK. Protect yourself with DVLA’s top tips.” Almost 20,000 customers contacted the DVLA’s call centre in 2024 to report fraudulent activity.
The agency has stressed that criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in deceiving drivers, making it essential to follow four key rules. First of all, the Government’s website should be the only site you can use to access official information about the DVLA and related services.
Using another site for services could mean you’re charged extra for something the DVLA offers for free or cheaper. And, in worst cases, they may be fraudulent.
Next, the DVLA advised drivers never share their driving licence or vehicle details online. While it might be tempting to quickly post on social media, log books and licences hold information that scammers could exploit to steal your identity.
In a blog from December 2025, the DVLA explained: “Getting your driving licence is a big milestone, and you may be tempted to share your new shiny licence or V5C (log book) on social media.
“However, both documents contain key identifying details that scammers can use to steal your identity or even clone your vehicle. And before you know it, you could be receiving parking, congestion or speeding fines that you were not responsible for.”
Beyond this, the DVLA also urged motorists to beware of dodgy emails and text messages asking for personal information. Scammers may similarly create websites to impersonate the DVLA.
Even if it seems legitimate, it’s essential to always look for key vehicle services on the Government’s website. “Fraudsters will often send emails or text messages to unsuspecting victims asking them to confirm personal details, such as bank or payment information,” the advice continued.
“They may even send messages that claim you are entitled to a hefty vehicle tax refund. DVLA will never ask you for your bank account details or ask you to confirm payment details. We will only ask you to confirm your personal details by email or text if you have a live enquiry with us.
“And vehicle tax refunds are issued automatically – never via an email with a link! If you receive one of these emails or texts, do not click on any links.”
If you think you’ve encountered a scam online, the DVLA advises reporting it to one of three designated services. These include:
You can also subscribe to email alerts from the DVLA to stay up to date with its latest information.
The DVLA’s four key rules
- Only use GOV.UK
- Never share your driving licence or vehicle information online
- Beware of emails and texts asking you to confirm personal details
- Beware of websites impersonating the DVLA
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